Each week the Lovejoy Athletic Department will feature the outstanding contributions from a member of our coaching staff. We appreciate the time, dedication, and the leadership that they invest in our student-athletes. This week’s Spotlight is on ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­head softball coach, Jeff Roberts.

Coach Roberts once again led the Leopards to the playoffs despite several players being injured this year. After making the playoffs in eleven straight years as a head coach, Coach Roberts has retired as the head softball coach and will focus his efforts on administration. The Lovejoy Athletic Department and Softball program have been blessed to have him lead the program these last several years. Coach Roberts contributions on and off the softball field will be greatly missed. Thank you for all that you do for the students of Lovejoy High School and congratulations on a great year.

How many years and at what schools have you coached? 2 – Wichita Falls City View, 3 – Van, 3 – Georgetown East View, 3 – Lovejoy

What coaching awards have you received? 5-Time District Coach of the Year (2009, 2010, 2011, 2014, 2015) East Texas Coach of the Year – 2009

What is one of your most memorable moments in coaching? The entire Area Round Playoff weekend in 2015 when the Lady Leopards dealt with multiple rain delays, and ended up winning a game at 3:16AM at Texas A&M Commerce. Then, the next day, we had to travel to Bonham for Game #3, and after getting behind 5-1, went on to win 20-5 after an 18-Run Inning. This inning included a 3-Run HR, and a In-the-Park Grand Slam.

Who is your favorite athlete and why? Although he may not be the greatest role model for young athletes, the greatest player to ever play college football is Johnny Manziel. He did things on the football field that could not be explained or replicated and became the first-ever winner of the Heisman Trophy as a freshman. His stats came in the SEC, the strongest conference in college football, and he will always be an Aggie Legend. Unfortunately, though, his life can also be used by coaches to discuss how successful athletes can sometimes make poor decisions and ruin what they have accomplished.

What do you like to do outside of work? Spending time with our Family, Aggie Football, & Snow Skiing.

What is the best part of being a coach? Relationships are built that will last a lifetime, and the ability to help transform young lives.